SAC Primary Logo Lightusfs logo

Hiring: Education Manager

Job Title: Education Manager

Organization: Sierra Avalanche Center

Location: Lake Tahoe Region (80% remote)

Job Type: Part-Time Seasonal


ABOUT THE ROLE

The Sierra Avalanche Center (SAC) is seeking an Education Manager to plan and execute educational programs that align with our mission and strategic priorities. This is a part-time position reporting to the Executive Director, and in collaboration with the Education Committee and Development Manager.

This position is ideal for an organized self-starter passionate about avalanche education. You will be responsible for educational planning, managing course logistics, supervising instructors, and tracking course feedback.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Program Management & Logistics
  • Manage the scheduling, enrollment, staffing, and logistics for SAC educational programs, including snowmobile-specific avalanche education.
  • Communicate with participants, instructors, and hosts to ensure efficient operations and positive learning outcomes.
  • Secure necessary facilities and permits for educational programs.
  • Coordinate with the Executive Director to ensure appropriate insurance is in place for events.
  1. Curriculum & Planning
  • Develop or acquire curricula appropriate for various audiences, ranging from youth to adults and recreational users to professionals.
  • Plan programs that range from short "awareness" events to full-day workshops and multi-day motorized courses.
  • Stay current on avalanche education developments to update course offerings based on best practices.
  • Identify gaps in regional avalanche education and determine if SAC is the best organization to fill them.
  1. Instructor Management
  • Recruit avalanche instructors with the appropriate qualifications for specific courses.
  • Coordinate or conduct annual training for instructors and stay current on training best practices.
  • Evaluate and mentor instructors to ensure professional growth and excellence.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers for events where professional instructors are not required.
  1. Communications & Outreach
  • Manage the "education" section of the Sierra Avalanche Center website.
  • Pursue public education opportunities, such as the weekly "State of the Snowpack" and messaging regarding specific incidents or weather conditions.
  • Maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders, including forecasters, ski resorts, corporate supporters, and schools.
  • Collaborate with the Executive Director to promote courses via the website, social media, and newsletters.
  1. Financial & Administrative
  • Work with leadership to develop an annual education budget, including program costs and instructor compensation.
  • Track education expenses to ensure budget compliance and grant reporting requirements are met.
  • Prepare an annual report for the Board of Directors summarizing program accomplishments and attendance.
  • Other duties as directed by the Executive Director and board of directors.


QUALIFICATIONS

While not strictly required, candidates with the following skills and certifications will be given priority:

  • Avalanche Education: Ideal candidate will have Pro 1 or Level 3 avalanche certification, A3 Pro or Affiliate Membership, and WFR or WFA.
  • Local Knowledge: Familiarity with backcountry terrain and snowpack in the Sierra Avalanche Center forecast area.
  • Administrative/Personal Skills:
    • Experience planning, managing, staffing, and marketing classes or events.
    • Advanced proficiency with Google G-Suite (Docs, Sheets, etc.); ability to learn and implement new platforms and software.
    • Experience managing employees; familiarity with California employment rules.
    • Experience developing and managing budgets.
    • Exceptional organizational skills; strong attention to detail and deadlines.
    • Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
    • Ability to take initiative and work both independently and collaboratively.
    • Ability to speak effectively in front of small and large groups.
    • Ability to prepare and present reports.
    • Experience managing content on websites and social media.
  • Other Skills/Experience:
    • Ability to work legally in the U.S. required.
    • Work may be performed in multiple locations, indoors and out, potentially including mountain winter environments.
    • Some travel required for events in the greater Lake Tahoe region.
    • May occasionally be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
    • Proficiency in snowmobile riding, motorized avalanche education, and connection with the snowmobile community is a significant asset.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION

  • Annual Hours: 500–700 hours annually. Approximately 60–80 hours/month September through March. 10–20 hours/month from April through August.
  • Location/Schedule: Work is 80% remote and schedule is flexible outside of events and meetings, which can include evenings and weekends.
  • Pay Rate: $35–45 per hour, depending on experience.
  • Benefits: $300/month health insurance stipend, 5 days paid sick leave, flexible work schedule, remote position.


HOW TO APPLY

Please submit resume and cover letter to jobs@sierraavalanchecenter.org

Review of applications will begin on 1/2/26 and continue until the position is filled.